Summer Skincare 101: What Ingredients to Avoid Before Fun in the Sun

☀️ Summer’s heating up—and so is your skincare routine!

Before you hit the beach, the trails, or even your backyard this season, there’s something you need to know: Not all skincare products play nice with the sun. In fact, some popular ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, leaving you vulnerable to sunburn, irritation, and long-term damage. Let’s break it down, so you can glow without the ouch.

If you love skincare, you’ve probably heard of these ingredients—and maybe even swear by them. But when it comes to sun exposure, here’s why you may want to take a seasonal pause:

1. Retinol & Retinoids

These anti-aging all-stars are amazing for smoothing fine lines and boosting collagen—but they work by speeding up skin cell turnover. That means your fresh new skin is more exposed and vulnerable to UV rays. If you’re using a retinol cream or serum, it’s best to apply it at night and never skip your SPF during the day! Or switch to Bakuchiol, for the same great anti-aging benefits, without the increased sun sensitization. 

2. AHAs & BHAs (Exfoliating Acids)

Ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid are popular for treating acne and dullness. But like retinoids, these exfoliants thin the skin’s outer layer, making it easier to burn. These ingredients can be especially risky in direct sun—so opt for gentler exfoliants or skip them entirely during peak sun months.

3. Benzoyl Peroxide

This powerful acne fighter can be a summer skin saboteur. Not only does it dry out blemishes, but it also strips away the skin’s natural defenses, leaving you prone to redness, irritation, and sunburn. If you rely on benzoyl peroxide, be extra generous with your sunscreen and consider reducing use when spending time outside.

4. Hydroquinone

Used to lighten dark spots or treat hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone can increase your risk of sun damage and may even reverse the brightening effects if exposed to UV light. If dark spots are a concern in summer, try gentler brighteners like vitamin C or niacinamide.

5. Citrus Essential Oils

Surprised? 🍋 Certain essential oils—especially bergamot, lime, and lemon—can cause something called photosensitivity, a chemical reaction that leads to burning or discoloration when exposed to sunlight. Always check your ingredient labels, especially in natural or handmade products.

💊 Don't Forget: Medications & Supplements Matter Too

Skincare isn’t just about what goes on your skin—it’s about what goes in your body too! Some medications and supplements can make your skin extra sun-sensitive. These include:

• Certain antibiotics (like doxycycline)

• NSAIDs (like ibuprofen)

• Diuretics

• St. John’s Wort

• Some antidepressants

If you’re unsure, check your labels and ask your healthcare provider. And when in doubt, more SPF is always better!

• Switch to gentle, non-sensitizing ingredients (think aloe, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid)

• Hydrate your skin with nourishing, barrier-loving moisturizers

• Avoid intense exfoliation right before sun exposure

• Use mineral SPF with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection

• Layer with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses

At Brody Brielle, we’re all about giving your skin the hydration and care it needs without increasing irritation or sensitivity. Many of our summer faves are:

• Fragrance-free or made with non-photosensitizing essential oils

• Free of retinoids and harsh exfoliants

• Packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, calendula, and cucumber extract

✨ Explore our Soothing Aloe Vera Soap, Moisturizing Shea Sugar Scrubs, and our Fragrance-Free Unscented Collection—perfect for keeping skin soft and sun-safe all season long!

Summer should be all about fun—not burnt, flaky, irritated skin. Now that you know what to avoid before stepping into the sun, you can tweak your routine for the season and protect that gorgeous glow. 

Stay hydrated, wear your SPF, and treat your skin with the love it deserves!